Gambling policy on the cards

A policy on gambling is next on the list for Family and Social Solidarity Minister Dolores Cristina, after she completed the drafting of an alcohol and drug policy.

Speaking at the opening of a seminar for professionals who work with gambling victims, Ms Cristina said the policy would provide further solid grounds on which Sedqa, the national agency against drug and alcohol abuse, can continue to develop and broaden its services related to gambling problems.

The number of clients making use of Sedqa's services for gambling problems doubled to about 50 last year over 2005.

Sedqa has been offering services related to gambling addiction problems for the past six years. Ms Cristina also commented on the changing face of the gambling scene and referred in particular to internet gambling saying this in itself required a new approach accompanied by new forms of prevention programmes and support services.

"Caritas is already doing a lot in the area of gambling. My hope today is that the training being given is just a beginning and will be followed up with more initiatives that will hone skills further in order to continue to provide a vital life-line to these people, including the innocent bystanders," she said.

Addressing participants during the opening of a training course on gambling yesterday morning, the chief executive of the Foundation for Social Welfare Services, Joe Gerada called for stronger regulations to ensure young people would not get into gambling.

Problems resulting from gambling addiction include financial difficulties, fear and tension in case of usury problems, social and psychological problems, and problems at the workplace, all of which would also affect the other family members and relatives.

Sedqa's gambling addiction service provides counselling and support to individuals and their families and significant others.

For more information, contact the agency on helpline 151 or visit www.sedqa.gov.mt.